About Jordan M.

Strum and sing your favorite songs! Rhythm, fingerpicking, singing and playing, soloing, chord melodies and more. The foundation of music lessons is developing good listening and good timing. These are skills that all the best musicians have. That, along with some study of ukulele basics will provide a foundation for us to approach the kind of music that inspired you to look up a uk teacher. My hope is that you will become a well rounded musician and uk player, and that we'll both discover new music :)

I also enjoy preparing for jam sessions, auditions, and competing for placement in school ensembles and for scholarships.

About Jordan

*Experienced teacher and professional musician...-Has performed with:Great Good Fine Ok, Leonard Patton, Gilbert Castellanos, Francisco Torres, 10,000 Maniacs, The Mighty Untouchables, Tori Roze & The Hot Mess, Gaslamp Quarter Jazz Orchestra, and many more.-Recorded on national tv ads for Dreyer's, KFC, Coca-Cola. -Over 6,000 private lessons taught to over 300 students.-More than five years of teaching experience in classroom settings: K-5 general music, middle and high school band, under graduate music history, directing college music ensembles-Students have included: ages 4-96, beginners with no experience, undergraduate music majors, scholarship award winners, members of the San Diego Youth Symphony program, many locals in San Diego, and online students from around the world :)

Discounts available:Military, Teacher di

scount - $5 off all lessonsEarly Bird (schedule lessons to finish by 3:30pm Pacific) - $5 off all lessonsCombine discounts for $10 off any lesson!Use the ask question feature and mention the discount :)

My mission is to provide a positive musical experience for all students. For some this includes rigorous preparation for an audition of some kind, for others it may be an introduction to music fundamentals to foster better listening skills and greater artistic appreciation. All students will be challenged to improve their listening, timing, and technique. All students will learn to play songs that they love.

Recommendations for best results: make a three-month commitment to weekly lessons, and work up to 30 minutes of daily practice. This formula guarantees results. Bring your instrument, music books, and a binder with sheet protectors ☺

*Scheduling policy: to avoid being charged for a lesson - One week notice is required to cancel, skip, or "roll over" a lesson. 24 hours notice to reschedule (based on availability).

To continue weekly lessons, students must maintain at least 90% attendance or the time slot may be forfeited.

Good Luck!

Jordan was born and raised in the El Centro, California where he began playing the alto sax in the elementary band program. At the age of 12, he began his study of guitar and drums, performing in several rock and ska bands around his home town and San Diego. At age 14, is where he found his love for brass instruments when he took up the trombone. While in high school he became a featured soloist with the Imperial Valley College Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of the legendary trumpeter Jimmy Cannon. It was this that lead Jordan to accept the Constance Weldon Music Scholarship to attend the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL.

While performing in South Florida Jordan appeared with major acts including 10,000 Maniacs, and appeared on the Spanish television show "Calle Ocho." He also gained invaluable experience teaching in Miami public schools. His first teaching assignment was at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School where he directed 3 beginning bands, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and their highly decorated Jazz Band. Later Jordan moved into the elementary setting, teaching vocal and instrumental music for grades K-5 at Cypress Elementary.

In 2007, Jordan returned to California to pursue a music career in San Diego. He can be seen performing all over San Diego, Orange, and LA Counties in styles ranging from rock, jazz, funk, blues, hip-hop, Latin, and more. He performs primarily on trombone, piano, and guitar, but is known to pick up percussion, harmonica, and other wind instruments as well. Jordan, along with the rest of the aggressively funky cover band SuperMagnetic, were the grand prize winner of the 2010 Viejas Ultimate Music Challenge 4. In 2011, Tori Roze & The Hot Mess were nominated for a San Diego Music Award in the category of "Best Blues Artist" after the release of their first album "From The Hip." They released their second album "Turbulence" last December, and are heard regularly on local San Diego radio. This album has also been nominated for Best Pop album for the 2013 San Diego Music Awards. In 2013, Jordan completed his Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University.

On stage, Jordan is a talented and versatile performer. He is known for his trombone sound and improvisational ability, as well as his positive relationship with his fellow musicians. In lessons, Jordan is energetic and creative.

*** Lesson Details ***I enjoy teaching kids and adults of all ages. When you arrive for our first lesson, we'll start by getting to know your musical tastes and aspirations. Then we make a plan. Then we play!

Everybody's path is different, but we must start with a strong foundation in the fundamentals. After we start to establish some technique on your instrument we will explore music that suits you from a practical stand point in your development, and very importantly, stylistically. Together we will plan a curriculum that keeps you motivated toward your goals and that fits your life style.

You can expect a laid back, yet focused environment. Most of all, you can look forward to progress! Hope to see you soon.

*** Studio Equipment ***Living room with large wall mirror, good lighting, with full size keyboard, weighted

*** Travel Equipment ***I expect students to provide an instrument for themselves. I also require a student to come prepared with sheet music, pencils, a binder with sheet protectors, and any books they are interested in.

*** Specialties ***I have an extensive background in jazz bands, salsa bands, classical wind ensembles, and improvisation. I also currently perform in both original and cover bands on trombone, keyboard and guitar, in a range of styles including rock, reggae, Latin, and funk. I teach beginning and intermediate piano, guitar, and woodwind instruments, as well as advanced brass.

Jordan M.

Jordan M.

About Damien S.

I teach ukulele for the beginner to the player that likes to play with bands

About Damien

Orlando-based composer and guitarist Damien has made a name for himself as a writer of scores for film, theater and dance productions.;A graduate of Music Composition at SUNY Purchase (New York) and Musicology at the University College of Dublin (Ireland). Years of touring internationally and score writing has given Damien the experience and work ethic to share his musical knowledge and abilities with others. Producing 4 cds and appearing on countless others' cds and compilations; Damien can share not only his musical/theoretical talents, but his experience in producing, recording, writing, and performing live.

*** Lesson Details ***Damien is a very patient and moderately, laid back teacher. He will teach what you want to learn, yet give you suggestions on other avenues to approach. Basics lead to complete knowledge of any subject. S

tarting from the beginning of what a student knows and moving forward step by step will only lead to perfection in their lessons. Having fun doing this, is the only way to keep a student focused and progressing. Enjoyment is the number one focus of Damien's lessons. If a student isn't enjoying and having fun with their lessons then they will not progress.Damien teaches ages of 5-99. You are never too young or old to learn. Damien's main focus is guitar and music theory

*** Travel Equipment ***I would expect the student to provide their own guitar (if necessary) and a notebook I have private parking for my students, so they don't have to worry about parking, ever !*** Specialties ***I have been taught, on a college level, of classical, jazz, ethnic musics. I specialize in guitar, theory, composition.

...

Reviews

Austin R. October 5, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Damien is extremely professional and does an excellent job explaining the fundamentals. As Albert Einstein said, "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." Damien has a way of explaining concepts so they are easily understood and retained, even for more complex subjects.

Jack C. August 21, 2017·Banjo·Online

Learned more about music in just an hour than I ever did in the past.

Eryn June 12, 2017·Banjo·In studio

So patient and funny! Just had my first lesson and can't wait to come back.

View Details

Damien S.

View Profile

Damien S.

Online

(34)

starting at

$38
/ 30-min

About Calvin A.

After the first lesson you will be making music, playing songs and be on your way to achieving your musical goals with the ukulele. Playing Ukulele requires a knowledge of chords, melody, strumming technique as well as knowing songs all of which we will begin to learn in your first lesson.

With 10+ years as a music teacher and professional musician I have picked up many approaches that will insure you are making the most progress and truly finding your musical voice.

About Calvin

As a teacher, I have worked with of many ages and backgrounds. One of my students, Skylar Stecker, has gone on to become a successful major label recording artist recently becoming the youngest artist to receive a number 1 on the dance billboard charts. I recently had the opportunity to tour with her as her guitarist and pianist.

I have studied, performed and taught music for over 10 years. I hold a B.A. in music from USC. My professional experience as a musician and teacher has led me to many areas of the music business. I've worked as an apprentice to several established film composers and arrangers and have had the opportunity work with Lionel Hampton New York Big Band, Metropole Orchestra, Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Clayton Brothers, Rachelle Farrell, Michael Buble, and Charles Aznavour. I play guitar, mandolin, piano,

I try to keep my teaching philosophy simple. We figure out your musical goals and aspirations and carve out a path to achieving them. Along the way I will try to illuminate how the path to attaining your goals and aspirations is best taken at an enjoyable, relaxed pace and with a strong work ethic.

I always prepare for your lessons based on your interests, integrating relevant books and videos, creating handouts tailored to what we are studying in order to maintain clarity.

Calvin A.

Calvin A.

About Albino M.

I have been playing Ukulele since 2007.Usually play it in a band setting and accompanying singers!!

About Albino

Albino was born in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, a country in southern Africa known for its rich musical and cultural heritage. Fueled by the resourcefulness and determination that have always characterized Mozambicans, he built his first guitar at 16 from a 5-liter can of oil, scrap wood, and strings made out of electrical cords.

Drawn to the sounds of neighborhood street musicians in Maputo, Albino began to play in a number of local bands. As with his home-made guitar, Albino wanted to combine styles and incorporate diverse elements in his music. For his talents to grow, he knew he needed experience new places, cultures, and sounds.

While studying music education and Performance at Universidade Eduardo Mondlane in Mozambique, he heard about the Berklee School of Music in Boston, USA, where he could expand his musical horizons

. Soon after, he was one of the first students to receive a full scholarship to Berklee through the African Scholars program. In 2009, he settled in Boston, Massachusetts.

At Berklee, he was exposed to a variety of influences, but wanted to go deeper into the roots of jazz and expand his knowledge of music. He auditioned and was selected to participate in the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, which is directed by Danilo Perez and the residency teachers, including Joe Lovano John Patitucci, and Terri Lyne Carrington. The Institute emphasizes an artist's original vision in jazz, and has helped Albino find his own unique voice in the art form.

Albino still felt the absence of his own Mozambican traditions in his music. With the help of his mentors, Richard Bona and Lionel Loueke, two of the most prominent African musicians in the United States of America today, he began to bridge that gap.

Today, Albino's music succeeds in combining many disparate parts into an organic whole. It incorporates his musical experiences from Mozambique, the U.S., and many other places around the world, combining rhythmic patterns and musical concepts to create a unique Moz-Jazz sound. He will always continue to combine and capture the energies of different musical traditions to create a unified and original musical style.

Albino's original composition “Mozambique Dance” was recorded by Jazz Revelation Records, a student-run record label at the Berklee College of Music, for the 8th annual album released in 2011. He also recorded “Awusiwana,” his own composition, for the Berklee 2012 summer album. His debut album, also called Mozambique Dance, is to be released in Spring 2013.

Albino is an active musician, and has performed in several countries including Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Italy, the U.S., and Mexico. He has also produced and recorded various projects in Mozambique and in the United States. In 2012, he will graduate from Berklee College with a degree in Music Production & Engineering and Performance, and a minor in Acoustics and Electronics.

*** Lesson Details ***My teaching method dependent on the type of student. All my students will be treated with care and commitment to help them archive the their goals in the lessons.We will be using book method as a way to follow a clear direction.Learn songs, chords, scales, phrase, theory and more material that is needed for better musical foundation.

I am open to what the student wants to achieve over short and long terms.

Albino M.

Albino M.

About Rebecca L.

About Rebecca

Rebecca L. is a 2012 graduate of Cal State Fullerton University with a bachelors degree in music education. More recently Ms. L. completed the rigorous teaching program at California State University Fullerton to which she received her single subject teaching credential. She has had the distinct pleasure of being the student teacher at Irvine High and Venado Middle school for the 2013-14 school year. Ms. L. has been a part of numerous musical performances that have shaped the way she performs as well as teaches. Ms. L. has had the opportunity to perform at Staple Center with Andrea Boccelli, the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Philharmonic under the direction of John Williams, the Nokia Theater for the E3 video game conference premiering the music from Nintendo's newest Legend of Zelda game as well as participating in a TED talk with Eric Whit

acre's live virtual choir. Ms. L. was also very involved in her high school and college choirs that led her to journeys and performances outside of the classroom to places such as Italy, Austria, and Germany. Most recently she has worked as a full time teacher in San Diego where she taught show choir. Currently, Ms. L. has found a. Ew home in Santa Clarita, hopes to gain a full time teaching position in vocal music and gain a studio of students who share the same passion and drive for music.

...

Reviews

Jacob G. February 23, 2018·Ukulele·In home

Solid teacher incl. personality. (period, end of story)

View Details

Rebecca L.

View Profile

Rebecca L.

Online

(1)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

View More

View Previous

About Matt S.

If you select me as your teacher, we'll start by discussing your goals and schedule, to make sure I'm able to assist 100%. Ukulele is a fun and road-friendly instrument to learn. Learning some ukulele also makes it easier to transition into the guitar later, if that's something that also interests you.

See my profile for more specifics about what we'll work on in lessons!

About Matt

With most of my music students, we focus on several key areas to ensure success of overall technique and knowledge: WARM-UPs, SCALES, MUSIC THEORY, SIGHT-READING, and PREPARED SONGS. I tailor my approach and style to each student. Although I'm very detail-oriented with lessons and followup, I'm constantly in search of finding FUN ways to make sure the student is enjoying the journey. I also prefer to work on a song that the STUDENT wants to learn. It's music, and it should be fun!

Please review the rest of my profile and send me any questions or concerns you may have. If I don't think I can be the best teacher for you, I will gladly refer you to someone else on Takelessons or elsewhere.

I've been a lifelong musician, and love finding unique and fun ways to motivate my students. I've worked with most styles of music before,

and arranged music for many as well, so I'm very comfortable helping students with a variety of disciplines and interests. My professional experience in both the civilian and military music communities has given me an open-minded yet direct approach to WHAT you should learn, and HOW to develop each student's individual skills. I'm able to teach most students to an advanced level.

...

Reviews

Wendy February 18, 2018·Singing·In home

Matt is an exceptional musician. His knowledge of a variety of music genres, ability to sight read and transpose into any key is extraordinary and makes him the accompanist of choice. As a man of faith, he inspires others to celebrate music as a gift from God, that should never be taken for granted.

Ling February 9, 2018·Piano·In home

Matt has the ability to keep his students interested in their music while bringing out their appreciation and musical creativity. I would highly recommend him as an instructor no matter the age of the student.

Al February 7, 2018·Composition·Online

A very good teacher all phases of music and application.

View Details

Matt S.

View Profile

Matt S.

Online

(31)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Julia P.

When I was growing up, we all learned ukulele in Elementary school - when Uke started making its resurgence these last couple of years, I was quick to jump in and start teaching this super-fun, portable, "easy to get started" instrument! Play songs, accompany yourself singing - be the life of every party!

About Julia

I'm a passionate professional vocalist and a fourth generation music educator. With 20+ years of professional performing, coaching and teaching experience under my belt, my vocal teaching method unites my classical and musical theatre educational background with the techniques I have developed for singing Jazz, Rock, R&B, Country, etc believably, beautifully, and above all, safely!

In expanding my teaching practice to include piano and ukulele, I emphasize rhythm and musicality alongside technique and note reading. I always set myself the goal of learning what makes a musician sound "right," and not just "good" in a particular genre. This versatility has made me extremely employable as an artist, and, I think, uniquely qualified to teach. I believe that students will work harder on music that moves them, and I always encourage students

to suggest songs that they care about. Good technique(s) can be applied to any repertoire!

...

Reviews

Gabriel November 2, 2017·Singing·In home

On the day of our first lesson, my son decided he did not want to take any singing or piano lessons after all. Since it was too late to cancel, and with the hopes he might change his mind, we went ahead with the lesson. Julia stayed professional, calm, and warm through the whole session, despite my son's lack of enthusiasm, and she tried everything to make him comfortable. She told him that the fear of singing in front of people is very normal, explained how lessons would work were he to continue, and gave a bunch of very helpful tips on singing AND piano in terms a 12 year old understands. Hopefully he will decide this is something he wants to do after all. Julia was obviously very knowledgeable, talented, and great with kids, and I hope we can continue lessons with her.

Sam August 3, 2017·Piano·In studio

We are very happy with Julia's teaching of piano to our young daughter.
Julia deftly adapted her instruction to accommodate our daughter's interactivity level, and never over-praised, as modern psychology says is the correct way.
Our daughter practices spontaneously on her own, which can be at least partially attributed to Julia's teaching style.

Thank you, Julia.

Caren June 8, 2017·Singing·In home

Julia is very patient and kind and a good instructor. My daughter likes her a lot. A big plus for me is that she comes to our home and doesn't seem to mind that our piano is in our dark, dank basement! What more could you ask for?!

Julia P.

Julia P.

About Benjamin E.

Want to have play songs for your friends, learn to jam, or even play in a band? It's really easy!

We'll focus first and foremost on discovering what will make practice fun for you. Once practice is fun, then improvement becomes playful (and much faster).

In your first lesson, we will uncover your goals and markers for success, then build a custom plan to get you there (with or without additional lessons).

About Benjamin

Practice is the highest pursuit of humanity.

I have been playing music for 20 years, Teaching for 10. My primary instruments are Ukulele and Guitar, and I love helping people come out of their shells with improvisational singing.

Through my life-long studies of Music, Kung Fu, Dance, Psychology, and Personal Development, I have come to the realization that every moment of every day we are practicing something.

The key to a life of satisfaction then is to ensure that we are practicing the skills that align with our Values, instead of simply robbing us of time. If we can do it joyously, then we have discovered one of the keys of life.

Benjamin E.

Benjamin E.

About William R.

My goal is to help my students reach their musical potential, and to come away with a greater love and appreciation for the art. I teach in a structured but fun atmosphere, and I always strive to keep lessons positive and encouraging!

Every student has his or her own musical goals and skill sets, so I always plan my lessons around the individual needs of each student. On the ukulele, I teach Hawaiian, rock, blues, pop and more. For my beginning students, I focus on posture, technique, ear training, sight reading, and beginning repertoire in your style of choice. As students progress, I go deeper into music theory and history, and I discuss composition styles in each genre. I also invite students to write their own music.

Whether your goal is to perform on stage in front of an audience, or in a quiet intimate setting for friends and family, to attend music school, or to play as a hobby for your own enrichment--I encourage all expressions of music!

About William

Thank you for visiting my profile and for your interest in studying music! I have been playing music for most of my life, and some of my greatest privileges have been studying and performing with master musicians from around the world in various styles.

I have a bachelors degree in music education from the University of Vermont, where my instrumental focus was on classical guitar. I have always believed in the value in improving myself holistically as a musician, so in addition to classical guitar, I also studied jazz guitar, classical and jazz piano, performed saxophone in concert band, sang in large and chamber choirs, played in percussion ensembles, and routinely performed bluegrass, Appalachian, and Celtic music with an old-time music group. I am currently finishing a masters degree in ethnomusicology from the University of Hawai'i

at Manoa, where I have been studying various Asian and Polynesian music traditions from Japan, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Hawai'i.

As part of my undergraduate degree, I worked at Burlington High School in Burlington, VT, teaching and conducting concert band, leading small jazz ensembles, and teaching music theory and composition. I have over ten years of experience teaching private lessons with students ranging from five year old beginners to advanced adults; from children with special needs, to ESL students (English-for-Speakers-of-other-Languages).

I am always inspired by the power of music to bring people together, to foster passion and creativity in individuals, and to nourish the body and soul. It is my dream to pass on the many music traditions that have inspired me and brought so much meaning and wonder to my life. If I seem like a good match to help further your musical goals, then I would love to hear from you!

...

Reviews

Malka R. February 26, 2018·Classical Guitar·Online

I've had two lessons with Bill now, and they've both been great! I came in already knowing some guitar stuff (like chords and whatnot) but never having studied classical guitar before. Bill was easily able to tailor lessons to my skill level and ability. Both lessons have been fun, and filled with lots of practical tips and techniques that have already improved my playing by lightyears! At first I wasn't quite sure how an online guitar lesson would play out (pun intended), but it actually went really well.
He also suggested several great resources for me to check out as to where to get music to learn and practice with (I'm focusing on Renaissance lute music). Bill is a very versatile player and teacher though, so I'm sure he could coach me in a variety of styles besides Renaissance music. I'm excited for many more lessons!

View Details

William R.

View Profile

William R.

Online

(1)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Victor B.

I learned Ukulele back in 2010, because I couldn't bring my Guitar everywhere with me. Learning Ukulele was the most fun out of any that I've learned before. I currently play Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, Cello, Violin, Mandolin, Piano, and Drums.

About Victor

Hi! My name is Victor, and I've been playing Guitar for over half my life. I'm 18 years old and I picked up my first Guitar at age 8. I love to learn and teach any instrument I can get my hands on. I currently play Guitar, Bass Guitar, Double Bass, Cello, Ukulele, Violin, Viola, Mandolin, Trombone, Harmonica, Piano, and Drums. My dream is to become a music teacher or a sound producer. I currently work full-time for the United States Department of Agriculture, but I'm still jamming out at every chance I get!

Recent Ukulele Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Ukulele articles on our blog.

Whether you just started ukulele lessons or you've been playing for years, there are a number of benefits that result from learning to play an instrument. From social perks to health benefits, it's important to learn about your instrument and craft. Here, writer, speaker, and host Don Smith shares interviews with ukulele players on the big power of a small instrument and why you should learn to play ukulele...
Gone are the days when the ukulele was just an instrument for comical value …
Read More

The Healing Power of the Ukulele | Personal Stories and Interviews

Whether you just started ukulele lessons or you've been playing for years, there are a number of benefits that result from learning to play an instrument. From social perks to health benefits, it's important to learn about your instrument and craft. Here, writer, speaker, and host Don Smith shares interviews with ukulele players on the big power of a small instrument and why you should learn to play ukulele...
Gone are the days when the ukulele was just an instrument for comical value

7 Ukulele Strumming Patterns for Beginners

No matter where you are in your ukulele lessons, learning different ukulele strumming patterns will help you improve your technique and your sound. Here, ukulele instructor Willy M. goes over some basic strumming and fingerpicking patterns...
Welcome to picking on the ukulele with Willy. In this lesson, we will learn how to insult, berate, sting and verbally abuse your ukulele! Just kidding! We're going to talk about ukulele strumming patterns. We'll also cover picking techniques and str

Here's What to Know Before Buying an Instrument

Thinking about buying a new instrument? It's a big decision, as an instrument is truly an investment -- especially if you're spending several hundred dollars (or more, for higher-end brands and models) on it.
Before making your purchase, you'll want to do some research. But where do you start? With so many brands out there, how do you know which ones are worth the money? What do you really need to ensure years of playing and practicing?
We came across a great article over on Donna Schw

Infographic: How to Play Ukulele in 10 Steps

&nbsp;
It seems like everyone wants to learn the ukulele these days. Which is great for you, because there are a lot of good resources out there for the beginner uke player! Having a system to help you get started can be very useful, however.
Here are 10 steps to learn to play the ukulele for beginners:
&nbsp;
Like most beginning musicians, you need someone to help you get going in the right direction when you pick up your uke for the first time. Book a TakeLessons teacher near you f

5 Easy Ukulele Songs to Brighten a Bad Day

Looking for a pick me up? Music teacher Willy M. put this great list of easy ukulele songs together that are sure to turn your frown upside down...
Ive had bad days; youve had bad days, it seems that sometimes theres no escaping them. Its like the wise sage once said, it rains on the just and the unjust.
Well, you can sit around and sulk, eat a pint of ice cream and watch movies that make you cry your eyes out, or you can learn these five easy ukulele songs that will brighten any